CBS announces Ringo Starr & Friends Ryman Auditorium special

The special will support the American Red Cross and those impacted by the California wildfires

CBS presents Ringo & Friends at the Ryman, a two-hour special celebrating the music and legacy of Ringo Starr through the lens of country music, airing this spring on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. Taping this week at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, the once-in-a-lifetime event will feature exclusive performances of Starr’s solo hits, Beatles classics and tracks from his recently released country album Look Up, produced and co-written by T Bone Burnett.

Proceeds from a one-time, all-star performance at The Ryman of With a Little Help from My Friends will support the American Red Cross and those impacted by the California wildfires.

An all-star lineup of some of music’s hottest names will join Starr onstage, including Sheryl Crow, Rodney Crowell, Mickey Guyton, Emmylou Harris, Sarah Jarosz, Jamey Johnson, Brenda Lee, Larkin Poe, Billy Strings, Molly Tuttle, The War And Treaty, Jack White and more. Together, they will reimagine some of music’s most iconic songs, such as “Boys,” “Act Naturally,” “With a Little Help from My Friends,” “Yellow Submarine,” “Don’t Pass Me By” and “It Don’t Come Easy,” blending classic rock with a country twist. Additional guest artists will be announced at a later date.

“It is always a thrill to play the Ryman and this time we are going country!” Starr says. “T Bone has put together a great show. I’m excited to hear my songs done in a country vein and to play with this incredible group of musicians. It will be two nights of peace, love and country music.”

In addition to the performances, the special will feature Starr reflecting on country music’s influence on his life, The Beatles, and his solo career. Guest artists will share their personal stories of Ringo’s impact on their music, offering fans a unique look at his legacy. Inspired by T Bone Burnett to explore a new musical chapter, Ringo showcases his extraordinary journey through a country music lens.

Buddy Iahn
Buddy Iahn